ONE of the hallmarks of a good political party is that it is able to encompass various strands of thought.

Each of the main parties contains a fair range of opinion among its MPs and grass roots members and it is discussion of these differing views that leads to the formulation of policy.

But whatever their differences, it is difficult to think of anyone in the main political parties who does not recognise the greatness of Nelson Mandela.

Even fierce political opponents came to accept and even admire the stature of the man who became president, united a grievously divided country and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

One of his most gracious acts was to announce after 26 years in prison that he forgave his enemies and thus launch a national process of reconciliation.

In this context, the comments to be found on the BNP's website about Burnley councillor Maureen Stowe, who has quit the party to become an independent, are very revealing.

Coun Stowe, like so many others, admires Mandela who is up there with Winston Churchill as one of the 20th century's greatest figures.

The BNP website suggests questioning of prospective candidates would "weed out those who profess a love for communist terrorists".

This shows a party which has tried to present itself as modern and democratic to in fact be prejudiced, moribund and intellectually bankrupt.